depersonalize

verb

de·​per·​son·​al·​ize (ˈ)dē-ˈpər-snə-ˌlīz How to pronounce depersonalize (audio)
-ˈpər-sə-nə-
depersonalized; depersonalizing; depersonalizes

transitive verb

1
: to deprive of the sense of personal identity
schools that depersonalize students
2
: to make impersonal
depersonalizing medical care

Examples of depersonalize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
To help depersonalize these tasks, the founder must evaluate the use of time in terms of an hourly rate. — Carl Gould, Forbes, 30 June 2022 The minus, for me at least, is to depersonalize these iconic figures. — Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 22 Mar. 2026 Rob made enough money to buy a second home, but the effect was depersonalizing. — Anna Peele, Vanity Fair, 14 May 2026 Conventional wisdom dictates that the best way to stage a home is to depersonalize it. — Alexandra Schwartz, New Yorker, 20 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for depersonalize

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of depersonalize was in 1866

Rhymes for depersonalize

See All Rhymes for depersonalize

Browse Nearby Words

depersonalization
depersonalize
depeter
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Depersonalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/depersonalize. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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